Decomecc

Decomecc, based in Genk, has been active in aluminium and steel processing for more than 30 years. Within their production process, heavy coils are moved daily using overhead cranes. Depending on the material type and plate thickness, these coils can range from approximately 6 tonnes up to as much as 25 tonnes.

To handle these heavy loads safely and efficiently, Decomecc worked together with SKP on a custom coil handling solution. Using specialised Crosby Airpes coil tongs, a solution was developed that both improves operator safety and increases efficiency within the production process.

Challenge: safely handling heavy and wide coils

At Decomecc, coils vary significantly in both weight and dimensions. Depending on the plate thickness and material type, coils can weigh anywhere from approximately 6 tonnes up to 25 tonnes. In addition, certain coils can reach widths of up to 2600 mm.

Safely and efficiently handling these loads presents a major challenge. Standard lifting equipment does not always provide sufficient stability or control, especially when different coil weights and dimensions must be handled within the same production process.

Operator safety is also essential. Employees must be able to lift heavy loads with full control and with clear visibility of the load weight. Without the proper equipment, this can lead to inefficiencies, additional handling operations or increased safety risks in the production environment.

Decomecc therefore looked for a reliable solution capable of guaranteeing both safety and efficiency when handling coils of varying sizes and weights.

Custom coil tongs up to 25 tonnes for safe and efficient coil handling

Safety and control as top priorities

The coil tongs used were designed with a strong focus on operator safety and control. They are equipped with integrated load cells, allowing the exact load weight to remain visible during lifting operations. This gives operators a clear overview and helps ensure lifting operations always remain within safe working load limits.

The systems are also equipped with overload monitoring and integrated safety systems, reducing the risk of overloading the lifting installation. Thanks to this technology, heavy coils can be handled with maximum stability and reliability.

Efficiency in the production process

In addition to improved safety, the solutions also deliver clear efficiency gains within the production process. By using customised coil tongs and handling equipment, coils can be moved faster and with fewer handling operations. This results in time savings during internal transport and smoother workflow throughout production. 

Result: safe, efficient and future-oriented

Today, Decomecc benefits from a reliable and tailor-made coil handling solution. The combination of coil tongs, C-hooks and coil tilting tables allows coils up to 25 tonnes to be handled safely and efficiently.

The result is a production environment where safety, efficiency and ergonomics go hand in hand, fully aligned with the 5S principles applied daily at Decomecc. 

Solution: custom coil tongs and lifting solutions

Together with SKP, a solution was developed based on specialised lifting equipment from Crosby Airpes. Several custom coil tongs were supplied to Decomecc, fully tailored to the specific needs of their production environment.

These solutions are used in combination with the existing overhead cranes, allowing coils to be moved quickly, safely and in a controlled manner throughout the production process.